Average American Bowel Habits: This Is How We Poop

Everyone poops. It’s sometimes embarrassing to talk about, but you can learn a lot about your digestive health from your time in the bathroom.

A new report from Healthline shows that only half of Americans have normal bowel movements. It might be time for us to collectively add more fiber to our diets.

The report also includes some information about common intolerances. Bread and milk are out for a lot of Americans: Dairy and gluten intolerances top the list, followed by eggs, corn and soy.

As far as diagnoses go, heartburn, acid reflux and IBS lead for digestive illnesses. Serious conditions like Crohn’s disease and Celiac Disease also make the list. One in five people have been diagnosed with a digestive disease.

On a lighter note, 41% of people will hold it if there’s someone in the stall next to them. The main reasons for holding it in while out and about? A lack of privacy, embarrassment and being afraid of germs.

If you need even more facts about feces, check out our infographic that discusses poop textures and colors so you know exactly what’s normal.